Chris Packham Opens Up About Living Separately from Long-Term Partner
Winterwatch star Chris Packham has provided a candid explanation for why he and his partner of seventeen years, Charlotte Corney, have chosen to maintain separate homes rather than live together. The beloved naturalist and television presenter, now 64 years old, recently moved to a property in the New Forest, Hampshire, while Corney continues to reside and work on the Isle of Wight.
A Lifelong Connection to the New Forest
During a revealing interview on the Homing podcast, Packham detailed his deep-rooted affection for the New Forest area, which ultimately influenced his relocation decision. "I’d be badgering my dad to drive me out at weekends to see the birds and bugs and bees and butterflies and things," he shared, reflecting on childhood visits. "So it’s an area I’ve known, you know, all of my life." This profound connection to the local wildlife and landscape made the New Forest an irresistible choice for his permanent home.
The Dynamics of a Long-Distance Relationship
When questioned about whether Charlotte lives with him, Packham clarified their current arrangement. "She spends a lot more time here now than she did," he noted. "She has her own house which she loves in East Cowes in the Isle of Wight, it’s very different than this." Corney, the founder and trustee of the Wildheart Trust, maintains her own residence, allowing both individuals to preserve their independence while nurturing their relationship.
Autism and the Need for Personal Space
Packham attributed his preference for living alone, in part, to his autism diagnosis. He explained how creating a controlled environment is essential for his comfort. "I create a space where essentially I feel comfortable because I’ve made it, I’m in control of it, but it’s a space which isn’t entirely comfortable for other people," he stated. "And so, as a consequence of that, it’s my way of controlling the fact that I really just want to be there on my own."
He further elaborated on the personal benefits of solitude, adding, "Because then I’m not judged by anyone I don’t have to judge myself." This self-awareness has been a cornerstone of his approach to both his personal life and his successful television career.
Mutual Understanding and Relationship Values
The couple, who first met in 2007 when Packham visited the Isle of Wight Zoo for filming, have developed a strong mutual understanding over the years. Packham emphasised that both he and Corney recognise the value of spending time apart. "I like having time on my own, you know, obviously I'm in a relationship with Charlotte, I like spending time with her, we sort of share our lives together," he shared. "But, you know, I think both of us recognise that it's a value to our relationship to have time when we're not together."
Revelations About Autism and Personal History
In a rare admission about their relationship dynamics, Charlotte Corney previously disclosed that Packham kept his autism diagnosis private for several years. Speaking to Radio Times magazine, she recalled, "It was about five years before he told me he has autism, and that was only because I asked." She described her own investigative process, saying, "I had googled the conundrum of his absolute devotion to me and his daily lack of empathy. It felt like I didn’t know who I was with."
Corney added that when she suggested Asperger's Syndrome as a possible explanation, "Instead, he gradually agreed. He hadn’t told me because he thought he had the techniques to hide it." This revelation highlights the personal challenges and adaptations within their long-term partnership.
Independent Travel and Different Preferences
Packham also recently discussed taking a solo holiday to Spain, explaining that he and Corney have different tastes when it comes to travel itineraries. This independent approach to vacations further illustrates how the couple maintains their individual identities while supporting each other's needs and preferences.
The Winterwatch presenter's honest reflections provide a unique insight into modern relationship structures, demonstrating how couples can successfully navigate long-term partnerships while honouring personal requirements for space and autonomy. Packham's story resonates with many who value both connection and independence in their personal lives.
